NGD: ESP E-II Horizon - Are there fake ESPs?

[phillybhatesme]

Picked up the ESP today after playing it in the store. It feels great and I love the neck. Rolled edges are great. 24 frets on 25.5" scale.
Pickups sound great, but why is the serial number a sticker?
And it doesn't seem to adhere to the rules outlined here - ESP Serial Numbers

I started peeling away the sticker, but it's leaving behind more than just residue. Any ideas before I actually pull it off?

https://i.imgur.com/yFL3GO6.png

 

[cardinal]

Doesn't look like a fake (seems too nice?). Wonder if it was a refurbished model; some times they will put a new serial number on them, but I don't think I've seen ESPs/E-IIs with this type of treatment before.

 

[NaturalBornBoy]

Why would anyone fake an E-II though??

 

[phillybhatesme]

Doesn't look like a fake (seems too nice?). Wonder if it was a refurbished model; some times they will put a new serial number on them, but I don't think I've seen ESPs/E-IIs with this type of treatment before.

Refurbished is definitely something that crossed my mind. There’s a dot of like…super glue on the “Built & Designed By ESP” stamp. I’ll try and snap a pic later.
I did see one more of these models for sale in Europe that had a sticker serial number as well; I’ll have to find the listing again and post. I think it even said B-stock so I wonder if you’re right.

Why would anyone fake an E-II though??

Lol fair. No clue but I feel like I’ve seen people talk about fake Schecters so idk.